The Picture-The-Finish Accuracy Trick
Many golfers stand over the ball thinking about everything that needs to happen during the swing: the takeaway, shoulder turn, downswing, impact position, and more. The problem is that the golf swing happens too quickly to consciously control all of those positions. Instead, try something simpler:
PICTURE THE FINISH BEFORE YOU SWING
Before you start your swing, create a clear picture in your mind of how you want to finish.
See yourself standing tall and balanced, with your chest facing the target, your weight on your lead side, and the club comfortably over your shoulder.
Then make your swing with one goal:
Swing into that picture.
When your brain knows where the motion is supposed to finish, your body often organizes the movements leading up to it more naturally.
WHY IT WORKS
A good finish is usually the result of several good things happening earlier in the swing.
When you picture a balanced finish, you encourage your body to:
Complete the turn through the ball.
Shift weight toward the target.
Maintain better balance.
Create smoother tempo.
Swing toward the intended target instead of simply hitting at the ball.
Rather than trying to manufacture individual swing positions, you’re giving your body a destination.
TRY IT ON THE PRACTICE RANGE
Before every shot, step behind the ball and visualize your finish.
Don’t picture your takeaway.
Don’t think about impact.
Instead, see yourself holding a balanced finish for three seconds while watching the ball fly toward your target.
Step into the shot, look at your target, and swing into that finish.
YOUR PRACTICE GOAL
Hit 10 balls using only one swing thought:
“Picture the finish.”
After each shot, hold your finish and ask yourself:
Could I comfortably stay here for three seconds?
Of the answer is yes, you’re probably improving more than just your balance. You may also be improving the sequence, direction, and rhythm that produced the shot.
Sometimes better golf doesn’t come from adding another swing thought.
It comes from giving your swing a better picture of where you want it to go.
Jim Powers, PGA Life Member
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